You Need
This is a new exhibition - now sponsored by Special
Children - focusing on computers and special needs, increasingly called
"Assistive Technology". Running next door to the gigantic BETT show, it offers
a more intimate, focused and specialist atmosphere and (particularly important)
free refreshments and somewhere to sit and chat with colleagues.
Dates: 8th - 10th January 2003
Venue: Olympia Hilton, Kensington, London
Opening times: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Two minutes away is all of the bustle of the more mainstream BETT 2003 where 25,000 teachers will visit 500 exhibition stands. The Special Needs Fringe has less than 30 stands, but includes the big names in Special Needs and the more specialist Assistive Technology companies. As part of this exhibition each of these companies presents their own seminars in the conference rooms of the Olympia Hilton.
The exhibition is deliberately planned to give busy special educators the chance to visit both shows. The Fringe opens at 9:00am, an hour before BETT, so that you can enjoy a free cup of tea and a chat rather than queue for BETT. The Fringe closes at five, again an hour before BETT, so that teachers can focus on BETT at its quietest time. Unlike BETT, the Fringe is not open on Saturday and this coming year (2003) runs from Wednesday 8th to Friday 10th of January.
This is actually the third year of the Special Needs Fringe. For two years Inclusive Technology had the excellent facilities of the Olympia Hilton to themselves. This was a huge success and other exhibitors asked to join them just as the hotel's ballroom complex became available. This wonderful exhibition space filled quickly, was extended, and filled again.
EMAP, the organizers of BETT, may not have immediately taken to the idea of two exhibitions. But special educators will certainly benefit from the competition, and from access to more specialist exhibitors who would not have exhibited at BETT. If special needs teachers are getting more from their day, then both exhibitions will draw strength and thrive.
If you can't find the information you are looking for about the Special Needs Fringe 2004 please call 0800 975 6090 or 01457 819790. If you are an exhibitor please see our information for exhibitors page.